Signal is finally introducing a new feature that allows users to sync their message history from their primary iOS or Android devices to new connected devices, such as desktops and iPads.
See also: Signal introduces “call links” for private group chats
The transfer process is fully end-to-end encrypted, ensuring data privacy and security. It will use a QR code to ensure that the action is authorized.
End-to-end encryption is a method of secure communication that ensures that only the participants in the conversation can access the data being exchanged. Messages and information are encrypted on the sender's device and decrypted exclusively on the recipient's device. This technology protects users' privacy by preventing third parties, including service providers and hackers, from gaining access to sensitive information .
Signal's operating model ensures complete privacy, with all messages being end-to-end encrypted. In addition, all user communications are stored exclusively locally on their devices, avoiding their storage on the platform's servers.
Since each connected device has unique encryption keys, messages can’t be transferred across newly connected devices. Signal engineers have devised a new mechanism that solves this problem by creating an encrypted archive of past messages on the primary device and transferring it to the newly connected device using a 256-bit AES .
See also: Signal fixes encryption key flaw
Users can start the process by generating a QR code on the newly connected device and scanning it from their primary device, creating a secure “provisioning address” for receiving encrypted data.
Before the file transfer begins, a provisioning message is sent to the new device, which is encrypted with the public key from the QR code. The message contains shared information , a one-time encryption key to decrypt the file containing the message history, and cryptographic proofs of legitimate account connection for the new device.
The archive includes all text messages, stickers, call history, group updates, offers, reactions, and delivery and read receipts.
The file transfer is done over a direct channel between the devices, with Signal servers acting only as a temporary relay. Media files (images, videos, documents) are not included in the file. Instead, links to attachments stored in encrypted form on servers .
See also: The EU wants to control users' messages – Signal reacts!
There is a 45-day media limit , as Signal automatically deletes anything older than that from its servers. The company says it is considering extending the media retention period beyond 45 days, but the limit is in place for now
Source: bleepingcomputer
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